T13. CONDUCT OF INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS

T13.1. Two styles of conduct of individual competition are recognised, defined as follows.

T13.1.1. Single string. In this, the competitor fires his sighters and counting shots in a string subject only to an overall time limit determined by the number of shots and the distance. How long he takes over each individual shot is a matter for him. The competitor acts as check scorer (Rule T13.16) for his successor and register keeper for the next competitor thereafter.

T13.1.2. ‘Bisley’ style. In this two or three competitors are detailed to fire at the same target. They fire in rotation (or alternately, as the case may be) starting with the right hand competitor, and register keep for one another.

A Single String

T13.2. In line with the general principles of squadding outlined at Rule T4.1. Organisers should allocate competitors to squads of no less than 5. Each squad should have one experienced competitor allocated to it to act a ‘squad leader’. Where target and entry numbers imply squads of 10 or more, consideration should be given to the creation of two (or more) ‘subsquads’ in order to allow respite for competitors.

T13.3. Squads should be allocated positions on the range which move between distances in a predetermined pattern designed so far as possible to equalise the effects of any favourable or unfavourable range configurations or times of day.

T13.4. At each change of distance (or on completion of a match if the next match is to be at the same distance) the competitors will rotate in otherwise unaltered order such that the first man at the previous distance shoots last at the next, with the remaining squad members moving accordingly. If sub-squads are in use, they will rotate within themselves, and when one full rotation is complete (in the smaller if of unequal size) the sub-squads themselves will swap order of firing.

T13.5. While a competitor is firing, his successor should get down onto the firing point without disturbing the competitor and prepare to fire in his turn so that shooting is more-or-less continuous. Squads will arrange among themselves the accommodation of left handed competitors.

T13.6. As soon as a competitor completes his string he should quit the firing point as rapidly and unobtrusively as possible and immediately settle his scorecard with the register keeper. As soon as the scoring process is complete, the check scorer will swap with the register keeper to allow the new competitor to commence on the register keeper’s command. The competitor who has just left the firing point will relieve the (now) temporary check scorer as soon as practicable. The last to shoot will check score for the first and register keep for the second; and the last-but-one competitor will register keep for the first.

T13.7. Prior to the commencement of firing, when instructed by the RO to move forward onto the firing point, the first competitor will be given a preparation time of 5 minutes. On command of the RO, the targets will be exposed to allow sight setting and dry-firing.

T13.8. At the end of the preparation period, the targets will be lowered. Timing for the first competitors will commence from the moment they are re-elevated. If the first competitor is not present at the commencement of firing the second competitor will fire (after due allowance to prepare). Any late competitor will explain his reasons for absence to the CRO and a five point penalty will be imposed unless the CRO rules that the absence arose for reasons beyond the competitor’s control. He will be accommodated as ruled by the squad leader on receiving authority from the CRO.

T13.9. Timing for the second and subsequent shooters will start on the instruction of the register keeper (having come forward from check-scoring and a sufficient pause having been given to allow the previous shooter rapidly to clear the firing point.)

T13.10. Should a squad member be absent, the RO must be informed. Squads may then be reorganised by the RO to even out the number of competitors per squad.

T13.11. The time allowances for individual string shoots are given in the following table. Sighting shots must be fired within the time allowance.

Time in Minutes

7 shots 10 shots 15 shots 20 shots

SR (200 – 400 yds/m) 10 14 20 26

MR (500 – 700yds/500 - 600m) 11 15 21 27

LR (700m and over) 12 16 23 29

T13.12. The register keeper must position himself immediately to the rear of his competitor. He must be equipped with a telescope or strong binoculars and a watch on which he can accurately time the competitor.

T13.13. Unless there is a target/marker problem (which must be brought to the attention of the RO immediately it happens/starts), timing must be strictly enforced. If the marking on a target is particularly slow, despite a message to the butts, the RO will decide, after observing the target, whether (and if so, how much) extra time will be allowed.

T13.14. The register keeper (whose timing is authoritative in the event of a dispute) must warn the competitor when he has three minutes left. At the end of the period of 3 minutes from the warning (even if the warning was given ‘late’), any unfired shots will be fired and penalised at the rate of 2 points per shot.T13.15. If the time taken is more than that allocated, the scorecard must be countersigned by the RO, who must annotate the reason/s for extra time being allowed, or amend the card according to the penalty ruling.

T13.16. The check-scorer will stand further back, alongside the scoreboard, which must face away from the firing point, for the benefit of the RO and spectators. He must also use a telescope or strong binoculars to verify shot values. Upon confirming the shot value, the check-scorer will repeat the register keeper’s call and enter the value on the board.

T13.17. As soon as the competitor finishes, the register keeper and check-scorer will confirm the score, including V-Bull count, and both will sign the competitor's scorecard. The register keeper will also enter the time taken.

T13.18. If, from observation of the scoreboards, a RO finds that one target is lagging behind the others in his section, he may temporarily reallocate one or more competitor/s to a faster group in order to save time. Any competitor thus moved will normally revert to his own squad at the next distance.

B ‘Bisley Style’ Shooting

T13.19. Competitors will be squadded either two or three to a target. As the shooting space is generally fairly narrow, when squadding is in threes, left-handed competitors will be squadded together to the right of each butt or on a separate butt.

T13.20. Squadding will be in accordance with Section T4.

T13.21. When called forward by the RO, competitors on each target will position themselves on the firing point, in relation to the target number marker as specified in local regulations.

T13.22. ROs will then check for any target on which there is only a single competitor and rectify the situation by moving one or more competitors. Only in exceptional circumstances may a competitor fire on his own, in which event the RO must detail a register keeper to keep score.

T13.23. The CRO will allow a minimum of five minutes preparation time before the “commence firing” order. One or more targets may be previously exposed for sighting and dry-firing purposes in accordance with local practice.

T13.24. A competitor who arrives during or after that preparation period, forfeits his right to shoot and may only be permitted to shoot if it does not inconvenience the other competitors on his target, and on penalty of 1 point deducted from his final score. No competitor is to be allowed to get down to shoot after the first shot has been fired on the target in question. The CRO (or his Deputy) alone has the absolute discretion to allow a competitor who has missed his detail to shoot in another; and will bear in mind the undesirability of allocating a detail or range position which might be thought to be more favourable to the competitor. A five point penalty will be imposed unless the CRO rules that the absence arose for reasons beyond the competitor’s control.

T13.25. The time allowance, per shot, is 45 seconds when there are three competitors on a target and 60 seconds when there are two competitors, or a competitor is firing on his own with a register keeper. Timing starts when the target has come to rest at the top of its travel, or the point at which any query as to the shot value, protest or challenge has been disposed of by the RO.

T13.26. If the targets have been pre-exposed, to allow sight aperture adjustments, etc., timing for the first shot will be from the order to commence firing. If the targets have not been preexposed, timing will commence when the competitors on the target signify that they are ready and in any case within 3 minutes of first exposure.

T13.27. A competitor, timed by a RO and found to have taken too long, will be given one warning. Thereafter, he will forfeit two points for the first shot which the RO has personally timed and found to have exceeded the time limit. For each subsequent shot outside the time limit he will forfeit the value of the shot in question. These penalties apply only within the distance being shot, and are not ‘carried forward’ to subsequent shoots. In the case of a localised disturbance such as a whirlwind or dust storm, a RO may use his discretion in allowing shooters a short relief from the 45/60 second time limit.

T13.28. Competitors on each target will act as register keepers for one another. In each case, a competitor will score for the competitor who fires immediately after him. This means that, with threes, the left and middle competitors will pass their scorecards to the right and the competitor on the right will pass his to the competitor on the left. If there are two competitors, they will just exchange scorecards.

T13.29. Competitors on a target will fire single shots alternately, or in rotation, starting with the competitor on the right.

T13.30. A competitor who misses the target with four consecutive shots (whether including sighting shots or not) must stop firing until the others on the target have finished. He may then complete his shoot, but will not be allowed an extra sighting shot. The detail will not be extended to facilitate this, however.

T13.31. Competitors must remain in the prone position until all on their target have completed the shoot. They may then retire from the firing point, after completing their register keeping duties and rifle safety checks, provided they do not disturb competitors who are still firing on adjacent targets.

T14. CONDUCT OF TEAM MATCHES

T14.1. Target positions for teams will be drawn by lot. For international matches involving more than one distance, teams should be moved at subsequent distances on a predetermined plan so as to minimise the effect of weather or favoured locations on the range. When squadding team matches, a team should not be squadded ‘astride’ a line of flags thus preventing firers and coaches from being deployed to optimum effect, unless this is absolutely unavoidable.

T14.2. If at all possible, in matches where each team has multiple targets, at least one vacant lowered target should separate the team sets.

T14.3. No one may be a member of more than one team in the same competition.

T14.4. Every team captain must, if called on to do so by the Organisers, furnish evidence that he has been appointed by competent authority.

T14.5. Subject always to match conditions, each team will be permitted the following non-shooting officials: captain, adjutant, chief coach/co-ordinator and one coach for each target allocated to the team: these are all members of the team. All members of the team may coach, spot or plot for each other. Any function discharged by the captain may be discharged on his behalf by the adjutant or chief coach.

T14.6. Subject always to match conditions, up to one reserve per target may be appointed. Reserves may carry out any function proper to a member of the team save that they will only fire if called upon as replacement(s) under the rules (See T14.13).

T14.7. There is no limit to the number of team members on the firing point at one time, provided there is no interference with safe range operation, or with any member of another team, or the register keepers.

T14.8. No other person is allowed to give advice to the competitors on the firing point.

T14.9. Each captain is to allocate the members of his team to the targets allotted to it. He may at any time order a member to suspend his firing and another to start: such member will not be entitled to any extra sighting shot before resuming. Without prejudice to the normal orderly conduct of shooting, any member of the team may direct any shot at any target belonging to the team provided always that the captain or a coach must ensure that the register keepers are informed before any change of target or order of firing is made. A member will be credited with a miss if he fires at a wrong target or a target which has not been nominated, even if this target is one allotted to his team.

T14.10. At each distance of a match:

T14.10.1. There will be a time limit for the whole team and each captain is responsible that all members of his team complete their firing at that distance within the time allowed.

T14.10.2. At the expiration of the time allowed all firing at that distance will cease, whetherthe team has completed its firing or not.

T14.10.3. The RO will report to the CRO if there has been any exceptional delay not occasioned by any act or neglect of a member of the team. If satisfied, the CRO may extend the time allowed.

T14.10.4. The captain or adjutant is responsible for calling the attention of the RO to any such delay immediately it occurs.

T14.11. No radio devices may be used between coaches/team officials, but an intercom system using wires is permitted provided it is restricted to those on the firing point. No one in the communications loop may sit that far behind the shooters and coaches that he can receive outside advice, in contravention of Rule T14.8.

T14.12. A member of a team may change his rifle at any time but as a consequence may not fire any extra sighting shots. The trigger will be tested unless this has already been done under Rules

T8.4 or T8.6. Rule T2.3 also applies.

T14.13. Should a member of a team be prevented from continuing to fire by any cause both imperative and unforeseen his place may, with the prior approval of the RO, be taken by a reserve to fire in the place of the retiring member and to take up the firing at the stage when such member retired. He will not be entitled to any extra sighting shots. The RO will notify the CRO of the substitution. Any such incapacitated shooter who is replaced may not participate in the match again as a shooter on the same day as his withdrawal.

T14.14. The disciplinary rules applicable to individual matches also apply, where appropriate, to team matches. Misconduct or failure to comply with the rules by any team member may lead to the disallowance of his score, or his personal disqualification, or disqualification for the whole team.

T14.15. In the event that register keepers are not provided by the organisers, each team must be prepared to provide register keepers to be exchanged between adjacent pairs or threes of teams as may be directed by the RO. Register keeping may be done by volunteers who are not team members. The safety check of a competitor’s rifle on completion of his shoot is to be conducted by the competitor’s coach or a team member nominated by the captain for the purpose; and the check is to be carried out before the competitor removes his rifle from the firing point.

T14.16. In team events, it is the responsibility of the team captain to ensure that score registers are correct in every respect and to sign them accordingly.

T14.17. For each distance in a team match, there will be an overall time limit for the whole team, based on the following formula:

T14.17.1. SHORT RANGE (Up to and including 600 metres). The minimum time allowed, in minutes, will be equal to the number of shots to be fired at a target (including sighters), plus 25%.

T14.17.2. LONG RANGE (700 yds and beyond). As for Short Range, but 33% added instead of 25%.

T14.18. Rule T6.2 (position of the shooter on the firing point) applies. If sitting, coaches may have their feet (and spotting telescope tripod legs) forward of the line/markers indicating the front of the firing point, provided they are well behind the rifle muzzles on either side.

T15. PROTESTS.

T15.1. Any claim or complaint by a competitor or team arising on the firing point must be made at once by way of protest to the RO. If his decision is disputed, or if the protest is not resolved on the spot, the matter must immediately be referred to the CRO, who (in accordance with rule T1.3) will consult the Match Referee if one has been appointed.

T15.2. ROs will deal with all minor infractions of the rules. For violations potentially meriting disallowance of score or disqualification, the RO will summon the CRO and Referee (if any). The CRO or Referee may impose any penalty up to and including disallowance of score, and will report any offence potentially meriting disqualification to the Match Committee, while taking any appropriate interim action, which could include ordering the firing of provisional shots. If provisional shots are ordered, the RO is to be clearly briefed as to the ruling and must annotate full details on the competitor’s scorecard, identifying the provisional shots.

T15.3. The CRO has absolute discretion to deal with all matters involving safety or security in accordance with Rules T1.4 and T1.7.

T15.4. The ruling by the CRO/Referee as to outcomes on the range will be final. In the event that a ruling cannot be given on the spot or immediately on completion of the competitor's shoot, the circumstances must be put in writing by the competitor or team captain concerned and handed to the CRO or the secretarial office within 30 minutes of the end of the match, for subsequent resolution by the Match Committee. The Match Committee will also rule on the admissibility of any associated provisional shots fired in accordance with Rule T15.2. Appeals will only be allowed in respect of penalties imposed (see Rule T16.1).

T15.5. Protests not directly related to occurrences on the firing point, must be made, in writing, to the secretarial office, for resolution by the Match Committee or Organisers, as appropriate.

T16. APPEALS

T16.1. An appeal against disallowance of score or any other penalty (or lack thereof) imposed by the CRO/Referee will be referred to the Match Committee. Such appeals must be made in writing within 30 minutes of the end of the relevant match and may be made by the competitor in person or a team official. Any appeal fee as set by host country regulations must accompany the appeal. The fee must be returned if the appeal is upheld.

T16.2. The organisers of any matches held under ICFRA Rules must use their best endeavours to ensure the prompt resolution of protests and appeals, consistent always with the principles of fair hearing under “due process.”

T17. BRIBES.

T17.1. The offer of any money or a bribe of any kind to any match official, register keeper, butt marker (or anyone in a position to affect either true marking or scoring) or other competitor is strictly forbidden.

T17.2. Any person knowing of any such offer, or of any attempt to defraud the host country or an official or any competitor, must report the same without delay in writing to the CRO, who will arrange for the matter to be dealt with by the appropriate authority. Failure so to do leaves the individual open to sanction under rule T19.5.9.

T18. DOPING CONTROL

T18.1. The ICFRA procedures and policy in respect of Anti Doping are laid out in the separate ICFRA Anti-doping Rules. No competitor may take, use, advocate the use of, have in his possession, or attempt to have in his possession, substances referred to on the prohibited drug list of ICFRA except in accordance with a Therapeutic Usage Exemption Certificate granted in accordance with ICFRA Policy.

T18.2. Any competitor must, if requested by an official designated by the host country for the purpose of doping control, submit to a drug control test. Failure to do so will be taken as if a positive result had been obtained and dealt with accordingly.

T18.3. The identification of a substance forbidden under RuleT18.1 and not exempted thereunder and/or one of its metabolites, or the presence of specified amounts of endogenous substances subject to quantitative analysis, in a body fluid will constitute an offence and the offender may be subject to disciplinary action.

T18.4. Any person assisting or inciting others in the contravention of these regulations will be considered as having committed an offence against these rules, and may be subject to disciplinary action.

WARNING.

T18.5. It could be highly dangerous for a competitor to give up or reduce a therapeutic drug regularly taken. No competitor should take this course of action without medical advice.

T18.6. Many of these prohibited drugs appear either alone or as mixtures in medications under a commercial title. It is advisable that, should there by any doubt, expert advice be sought by the competitor before taking any medication.

NOTE

T18.7. Fullbore Shooting at the Commonwealth Games will be conducted in accordance with Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) anti-doping procedures, which mirror those of the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA). They are more exacting than those of ICFRA, and Commonwealth Games Competitors MUST comply with them.

T19. PENALTIES.

T19.1. There are five levels of penalty:

T19.1.1. Discretionary penalties for minor offences.

T19.1.2. Deduction of points

T19.1.3. Disallowance of score

T19.1.4. Disqualification from further participation in the meeting

T19.1.5. Suspension, which carries with it a period of suspension beyond the meeting, and which is reportable to ICFRA.

T19.2. Discretionary Penalties. For any minor or technical infringement, which does not expose anyone to danger, or give the offender any material benefit or advantage over other competitors and for which no penalty is specifically laid down in these rules, the Match Committee has full discretion to impose what it considers an appropriate penalty.

T19.3. Deductions of points. Various rules dictate that points should be deducted for specific offences. These include firing on the wrong target, or out of turn, exceeding the time limit, trigger test failure, etc. Details are given in the respective rules, and they are automatic.

T19.4. Disallowance of Score. The following offences may lead to the disallowance of a competitor’s score by the CRO (or Referee if appointed). If the score is disallowed, the competitor concerned will have the right of appeal under Rule T16.1. to the Match Committee, whose decision will be final.

T19.4.1. Failure to hand in his scorecard.

T19.4.2. Refusal to obey valid instructions given by a RO, whether for safety purposes or for the due carrying out of these rules.

T19.4.3. Failure to comply with the specific conditions laid down for a particular match or the general regulations for the conduct of the meeting.

T19.4.4. Use of a rifle that does not comply with the requirements set out in these Rules, (e.g. one that exceeds the maximum weight permitted.)

T19.4.5. Continued use after warning of rifle attachments, shooting aids, or other equipment which, although not specifically prohibited by the Rules, are considered by the CRO or Referee to give the user an unfair advantage over other competitors.

T19.4.6. After completing a shoot, leaving the firing point with an “unsafe” rifle (bolt still in or no breech flag). In this event the penalty may apply to both the competitor and his register keeper.

T19.4.7. When coaching is not allowed, giving or requesting any advice in the nature of coaching whilst on the firing point in contravention of rule T6.9.

T19.4.8. Persistent infringement, despite earlier warnings and deduction of points, of the 45/60 second shot time limit.

T19.4.9. In an individual match, changing rifles during the firing at any one distance, without satisfying the RO that the first rifle is unserviceable.

T19.4.10. Unfairly screening himself or his rifle, or allowing anyone else to do so. In each of these cases, the CRO or Referee will have the authority to impose a lesser penalty should he consider that there are mitigating circumstances.

T19.5. Disqualification. Any competitor may, on the occurrence of any of the following offences being proved to the satisfaction of the Match Committee, be excluded from all further competitions during the meeting and forfeit all entrance fees and any prizes won subsequent to the offence. The imposition of such a penalty by the Match Committee will automatically be reported by the Chairman of the Match Committee to the Chairman of the disciplinary body of the host country, which may at its discretion consider imposing the penalty of “Suspension” (Para 19.6.) following a further hearing. In any event the competitor concerned has the right of appeal to the disciplinary body of the host country, which will adopt due process and whose decision will be final:

T19.5.1. Discharging a firearm anywhere in the range area or camp, other than on a shooting range that is under control of a RO.

T19.5.2. Being found with a loaded rifle except at his proper firing point during a match or practice.

T19.5.3. Loading or firing a shot when the danger sign is up or before the order to commence fire has been given; or intentionally firing a shot out of turn or at the wrong target, or at any object other than his proper target.

T19.5.4. Accidentally discharging his rifle on the range, in a direction other than towards the stop-butt.

T19.5.5. Acting in any other way that might prove dangerous, either on the range or elsewhere in the range area.

T19.5.6. Knowingly shooting for a team for which he is not eligible.

T19.5.7. False entry, Viz. Shooting under a false name or that of another competitor or using a register scorecard other than one issued to him or knowingly shooting in a competition for which he is ineligible.

T19.5.8. Contrary to the provisions of these rules, deliberately modifying his rifle or applying his shooting aids in such a way as to obtain an unfair advantage.

T19.5.9. Offering, or accepting, a bribe of any kind to overlook a breach of the rules, or to falsify a scorecard, etc. Also, knowing of such a bribe, offer, or of any attempt to defraud the organisers or any competitor, failing to report it without delay to the Match Committee.

T19.5.10. Deliberately altering his scorecard or otherwise knowingly claiming or accepting points that he has not scored, or conniving at such conduct by another competitor. This includes deliberate failure to draw the RO’s attention to a spotting disc which unmistakably disagrees with the score indicated.

T19.5.11. Using ammunition outside the ICFRA specification .

T19.5.12. Theft of equipment belonging to the association or another competitor, or any other criminal activity.

T19.5.13. Conduct that the Organising Committee may consider to be discreditable or detrimental to the Host Association or ICFRA.

T19.5.14. Violation of the requirements of the host country in respect of security or Firearms legislation.

T19.5.15. Having been reported to the Organising Committee as still being under suspension by another ICFRA member Association.

T19.6. Suspension. Following a report of disqualification to the disciplinary body of the host nation by the Match Committee under Rule T19.5, the disciplinary body will convene to consider whether a period of suspension from all fullbore TR activities should additionally be imposed. If a period of suspension is in contemplation a proper hearing of the competitor’s representations must be undertaken. All instances of suspension must be reported in writing, with full details, to the Secretary General of ICFRA, who will advise all member associations. All ICFRA member countries must observe the suspension period. If the activity was of a criminal nature, the police must also be informed.

T19.7. Offences against Rules T18.1 to T18.4 will be considered under the ICFRA Anti Doping Rules.

T20. TIES FOR INDIVIDUAL EVENTS.

T20.1. Ties in individual matches will be shot off under the following circumstances:-

T20.1.1. For a trophy,

T20.1.2. (Subject to exception in Match Conditions) for a top-three medal where these are of distinctive metal/colour

T20.1.3. (Subject to match conditions) for the lowest qualifying places in the subsequent stage of a match shot in stages. A Match shot in stages is one so defined in Match Conditions. Each Stage is distictly defined; and a specified number of shooters (which may be “all” but typically is a reduced number based on scores) will qualify to shoot in the next, or final, Stage.

T20.2. A tie occurs when two or more individuals make the same total score and total V-Bulls1.

T20.3. It is the responsibility of the competitor to ascertain whether he is likely to be required for a tie shoot, and the time and place where it will be conducted. Any competitor who fails to attend the tie shoot will be awarded the lowest place being contested.

T20.4. Tie shoots will comprise one convertible sighter and 5 shots to count at the longest distance of the match. If a tie for one of the awards still remains unresolved, those competitors still tying will fire shot for shot sudden death (with “V” counting higher than bull 5) until the tie is broken.

T20.4.1. Numbers permitting, each contestant will fire on a separate target. Adjacent targets will be used and exactly the right number will be exposed and remain exposed until the whole tie shoot is complete.

T20.4.2. Unless firing in pairs, each contestant must have a register keeper, who will position himself behind his competitor, at the rear of the firing point.

T20.4.3. The time limit per shot will be 60 seconds from the time the target reaches the top of its travel or immediately following the resolution of any dispute as to the value of the shot indicated.

T20.5. Immediately the place(s) subject to the tie shoot have been resolved, the tie shoot will be stopped and the order of merit of all other participants in the tie shoot will be decided by count out.

T20.5.1. By the total score in the tie shoot including V-Bulls;

T20.5.2. If still a tie, by counting out on the tie shoot;

T20.5.3. If still a tie, by counting out on the original match score under T20.6. below.

T20.6. Counting out: All other ties will be counted out as follows.

T20.6.1. (For competitions conducted in one or more stages) By the aggregate of the scores in each successive stage, commencing with the last (See Rule T201.3).

T20.6.2. If still a tie by range totals in order of distance, commencing with the longest. If any distance has been shot more than once, all scores at that distance will be added together.

T20.6.3. If still a tie, by the value of each shot at the longest distance of the match, in the reverse order of their firing.

T20.6.4. If still a tie, by the value of each shot at the next-to-longest distance, in the reverse order of their firing and so on, until the tie is broken.

T20.6.5. In steps 20.6.3. and 20.6.4., a V-Bull will be deemed to be of higher value than bull 5.

T20.7. Where a tie shoot is not specified, and application of the tie-breaking steps does not resolve a tie, prize money will be equally divided. 1 50.7 beats 50.6 beats 49.9

T21. TIES FOR TEAM EVENTS.

T21.1. All team ties will be counted out by range totals in order of distance, commencing with the longest. If any distance has been shot more than once, all scores at that distance will be added together.

T21.2. If still a tie, by value of the aggregate of the shots (by shot number) of all the firers in the team at the longest distance, in reverse order of firing, until the tie is broken. If still necessary thereafter, by the application of the same principle to the next-longest distance and so on.

ANNEX T/A

ICFRA STANDARD TELEPHONE AND RADIO MESSAGES

The ICFRA Standard list of abbreviated messages for communication between butts and firing point - Rule No T12.11. refers – is as follows

1. Firing about to commence.

2. No spotting disc visible.

3. Spotting disc unmistakably disagrees with the signalled value. Check that spotting disc shows LAST shot and signal its correct value. (The RO is to view target before passing message).

4. A shot has been fired but no signal has been made. Examine target carefully and signal the shot if found or a miss.

5. Competitor has challenged for a higher value for his shot. Recheck the shot hole (using a gauge if necessary) and signal the correct value.

6. It is suspected that there is a second shot on the target. Clear and patch out the existing shot hole, inspect the target and indicate any further shot found or a miss.

7. A miss has been signalled but competitor has challenged for a scoring shot. Reexaminethe target carefully and signal the shot if found or a miss.

8. The spotting disc appears not to have moved. Butt officer is to consult marker and confirm correct value, confirming successive shots to have been very close to each other if this is the case.

9. Marking appears to be unduly slow. Butt Officer to check and correct where necessary.

10. Finished with target. Patch the target. Half-mast it, or re-rig for the next distance or put away, as the programme demands.

11. Stand easy. Lower target, patch out and put target back up.

All messages and results must be confirmed by radio or telephone.

ANNEX T/B

FIRING POINT LAYOUT

B1. The Firing Point in respect of Team Matches and World Championship Individual Events will be defined by the line or line of markers defining the front of the firing point and a ‘whitewash’ line 4 metres behind it denoting the rear of the firing point. The Competitors’ Area lies between that line, and a line a further 6 metres to the rear. The whole is the “Field of Play” and is the Team Area for Team Matches. These dimensions may be sensibly adjusted if natural features such as ditches so suggest, and those features may substitute for lines. Lines should also define the extent of a ‘Team Area’ to the left and right. For major team matches, it is preferable that ropes should be used at the rear and sides of team areas to prevent intrusion by spectators or members of other teams

B2. Access to the ‘Field of Play’ will be controlled in accordance with Rule T6.10.

ANNEX T/C

ICFRA STANDARD SIGNALLING SYSTEM

C.1. Following are the marking systems approved by ICFRA for International Competition:-

C.2. The value of each shot will be shown by a value panel displayed against the target itself. The panel may be double-sided (coloured black one side, ‘fluorescent’ the other) or singlesided black. The positions will be as follows:-

C2.1. Double sided panel displayed along the bottom of the target in the following positions: Black Outer 2 Magpie 3 Inner 4 Bull 5 Fluorescent Hit 1 V-Bull - V

OR

C2.2. Black Panel displayed along the bottom of the target, or elevated to 4 O’clock or 8 O’clock (avoiding the sight picture) as follows: Elevated Hit 1 V-Bull - V Bottom Outer 2 Magpie 3 Inner 4 Bull 5

C3. In either system the absence of a panel will denote a miss or a fresh target.

ANNEX T/D

DIMENSIONS OF ICFRA TARGETS.

D1. Targets: General

D1.1. Form. All targets will consist of a circular black aiming mark centred on a white or off-white background.

D1.2. Frame Sizes. The standard dimensions are (height x width):

300yds/m: 1.2 x 1.2 metres (4 x 4 foot)

500-700yds: 1.8 x 1.8 metres (6 x 6 foot)

Long Range: 1.8 x 2.4 metres (6 x 8 foot)

Alternatives: The 300yds/m target may also be mounted on a 6x6 ft. frame, centred in a marked 4x4 ft. square. The US Long Range target is mounted on a 6x6 ft. frame for domestic matches. GB and some other countries have a wider 6x10 ft. (1.8 x3.0 m) frame for long range. This wider frame is acceptable for ICFRA matches.

D1.3. Target numbering. Each target must be clearly numbered. These numbers must be of such size that they are clearly visible, to the naked eye, at the furthest distance to be shot on thetargets in question. Corresponding number markers (pegs) will be placed on the forward edge of each firing point.

D2. ICFRA Standard Aiming Marks

D2.1. The following criteria apply to targets for use at meetings shot to ICFRA Rules:-

D2.1.1. 300yds - Aiming Mark. 560 mm to include the magpie or (optionally) outerscoring zone.

D2.1.2. 300m - Aiming Mark. 600 mm to include the magpie or (optionally) outer scoring zone.

D2.1.3. 500yds/600yds (& 700yds) - Aiming mark. 915 mm to include the magpie scoring zone.

D2.1.4. 500m/600m - Aiming Mark. 1000mm to include the magpie scoring zone.

D2.1.5. Long Range - Aiming Mark 1220 mm to include the inner or (optionally) magpie. Within these standard criteria National Associations may specify scoring rings according to local criteria provided always that no zone is partly in the black and partly in the white.

D2.2 The target date for adoption will be 1/1/2008. After that date, the only Imperial-equivalent aiming marks which will remain acceptable pending reprinting are those of 559mm (22”) and 1219mm (48”).

D3. The ICFRA International Match Target (Short Range)

(All measurements in mm)

300 yds 500yds 600yds 300m 500m 600m

Aiming Mark 560 915 915 600 1000 1000

V-Bull 65 130 145 70 145 160

Bull 130 260 290 140 290 320

Inner 260 600 600 280 660 660

Magpie 390 915 915 420 1000 1000

Outer 560 1320 1320 600 1320 1320

Hit ROT ROT ROT ROT ROT ROT

The bull will count 5 points unless the conditions of the match specify otherwise.

D3.1. The target for 700 yds will be that for 600 yds. If a 400yds or 400m target is required, the

300yds or 300m target (as appropriate) may used, with aiming mark and rings increased proportionately - i.e. x4/3 in diameter.

D4 The ICFRA International Match Target (Long Range)

(All measurements in mm)

Distance 700m – 1000 yds

Aiming Mark 1220 (48”)

V-Bull 255 (10”)

Bull 510 (20”)

Inner 915 (36”)

Magpie 1220 (48”)

Outer 1830 (72”)

Hit ROT*

The bull will count 5 points unless the conditions of the match specify otherwise. * Countries using targets with wooden outer frames may have a 25 mm (1 inch) non-scoring zone onthe outer edges of the targets.

ANNEX T/E

SAFETY GUIDELINES & TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR RIFLES & AMMUNITION

PREAMBLE

Attention is drawn to Rule T1.6 which lays clearly on the competitor the responsibility to ensure the safety of his rifle and handloaded ammunition and the two when in use as a combination. Without prejudice to this, what follows is guidance as to normally accepted safe practice and criteria as to the safe limits on various parameters when factory ammunition is in use.

E1. Signs of Excessive Pressure

E1.1 Signs that pressures of any ammunition in any firearm exceed the sensible limit for the combination of components in use include:-

E1.1.1 Hard Extraction - difficulty in opening the bolt. This may be due to soft or oversize cases or to rifle factors such as a rough chamber,

E1.1.2 The presence of bright marks on the case head after firing matching extractor and ejector slots in the bolt face. These are caused by extruded material being sheared off and often cause the difficult bolt operation noted in E1.1.1 above,

E1.1.3 Heavily flattened, extruded, cratered or pierced primers. Although some rifles show these signs with ammunition where the pressures are not excessive, the general indication is that the pressures are grossly excessive for the combination of components used in that firearm,

E1.1.4 Gas leaks around the primer, or blown primers, can indicate pressure at a dangerous level and should be urgently investigated,

E1.1.5 Case failure could be the function of grossly excessive pressure or brass that has been reloaded too many times and has work-hardened. This could take the form of split necks or case perforations. In the worst scenario there can be complete case separation, either at the neck/shoulder or just in front of the web area. In every event of case failure, firing must cease immediately as severe gas escape can damage the firearm and possibly injure the firer or those alongside him.

E2. Action to be taken by Range Officers

E2.1 In the event of any of the above signs being manifested on the range, Range Officers will apply Rules T7.1 to T7.3. It is the responsibility of any person to draw the attention of Range Staff to any safety-related issue of which they become aware, this not being limited to their own rifle and/or ammunition.

E3. Hand-loaded Ammunition

E3.1 The chief danger with hand-loaded ammunition is that inexperienced or irresponsible handloaders can assemble and fire ammunition which may inconvenience or endanger others as well as themselves.

E3.2 The most usual manifestation of unsafe, as opposed to unsatisfactory, hand-loads is that they produce excessive pressures for the firearm in which they are used.

E3.3 It must be clearly understood that safety of both firer and others depends on the structural integrity of both firearm and cartridge case.

E3.4 Handloads must be considered unsafe irrespective of actual pressure level if either firearm or cartridge case is incapable of safely containing that pressure.

E3.5 The use of old or damaged cases compounds these risks.

E3.6. The most common causes of excessive pressures are set out below. The list is, however, not intended to be exhaustive.

E3.6.1 Use of a too-fast burning powder,

E3.6.2 An excessive charge of powder, often in combination with E3.6.1 above. This is by far the most common cause of dangerous pressures in hand-loads.

E3.6.3 Over long cases which have not been trimmed to the recommended maximum length,

E3.6.4 Erroneous loading practices,

E3.6.5 Differences in the dimensions of chamber and throat area of the firearm from the minimum chamber dimensions specified in SAAMI and/or CIP drawings may create excessively high pressures if not compatible with the cartridge and combination of components in use. Such things as setting the bullet further forward to engage the rifling or a bullet of larger diameter than that of the chamber throat may cause this. One indication, but by no means the only one, of this particular problem is pulling of the bullet from the cartridge when attempting to extract an unfired cartridge from the chamber. A RO’s call for ‘cease fire and unload’ is COMPULSORY: a separated round will cause inconvenience for the competitor and those firing with him alike. Some, but not all, of the combinations, which are likely to cause compatibility problems, are:-

E3.6.5.1 Ammunition incorrectly assembled for the chamber dimensions in use,

E3.6.5.2 Chamber incorrectly dimensioned for the ammunition in use,

E3.6.5.3 Use of .308” Win commercial ammunition in a rifle chambered for, and normally used only with, the 7.62 x 51mm NATO cartridge.

E3.7 Non-brass or composite brass/steel cases may not be used for handloads.

E4. Rifle Barrel Dimensions & Ammunition Pressures

E4.1 It has been common practice for many years (with a demonstrable record of safety) for the bore and chamber dimensions of rifles used for target shooting with 7.62 x 51mm NATO ammunition to be less than the minimum dimensions specified in SAAMI or CIP chamber drawings. These relaxations comprise:-

E4.1.1 A minimum bore diameter of not less than 0.2980 inches (7.57mm),

E4.1.2 A minimum groove diameter of not less than 0.3065 inches (7.79mm),

E4.1.3 A minimum throat diameter which is not less than the diameter of the projectile and in any case is not less than 0.3085 inches (7.84mm).

E5. Use of Factory Ammunition

E5.1 Signs of excessive pressure with factory ammunition are almost always associated with firearms where the chamber dimensions are undersize for the ammunition being used, or where the pressure produced by the cartridge, despite being within the SAAMI / CIP permissible maximum, is excessive for the bore / chamber dimensions of the firearm.

E5.2 When factory ammunition is being used in barrels, which have bore/chamber dimensions less than those specified in the SAAMI or CIP minimum chamber drawings :-

E5.2.1 The bullet must not be in contact with the rifling,

E5.2.2 The pressure produced by the cartridge, as measured in a SAAMI or CIP standard pressure barrel using a piezo-electric pressure transducer, should not exceed 3680 Bar (53375 psi).

E6. Use of 5.56mm calibre Rifles and Cartridges

E6.1. In 1979 SAAMI issued a caution to users that the 5.56 x 45mm military chambers and throats differ from the .223” Remington sporting (and target) rifle chambers. Military ball ammunition may therefore produce very high pressures in target rifle chambers. This is the principal safety issue with the use of 5.56mm calibre cartridges for target shooting.

E6.2. The 5.56mm calibre cartridge used for target rifle shooting may variously be designated as :-

a) .223” Remington

b) 5.56mm x 45mm

c) 5.6mm Ball cartridge (M193)

d) 5.56 x 45mm NATO (SS109)

a) and b) are the imperial and metric designations of the same commercial cartridge. c) and d) are the nominally equivalent military cartridges and are designated "5.56mm calibre military" rounds hereinafter.

E6.3. There are significant differences in throat (leed) dimensions between chambers designed for firing the commercial .223” Remington cartridge as compared with chambers designed for firing the 5.56mm calibre military cartridges.

E6.4. 5.56mm calibre military cartridges are not suitable for use in rifles chambered for the .223” Remington (5.56mm x 45mm) commercial cartridge and may not be used therein.

E6.5. The barrel and chamber dimensions of rifles approved for use in ICFRA Matches must comply with the relevant SAAMI or CIP ‘minimum chamber’ drawings for the .223” Remington (5.56mm x 45mm) cartridge.

E6.6. 5.56mm calibre military cartridges may be used in ICFRA Matches but only in rifles chambered specifically for this cartridge.

E6.7. .223” Remington (5.56mm x 45mm) commercial cartridges may safely be fired in rifles chambered for the 5.6mm Ball cartridge or 5.56 x 45mm NATO cartridge.

INDEX TO RULES – REGULATIONS – CONDITIONS

Topic Rule(s)

Access to firing points T6.10

Aiming Marks T5.2, Annex T/D

Alcohol T1.9

Ammunition: “Issue” T8.15 – T8.21

Ammunition: Specification T2.16

Ammunition: Testing T1.6, T8.13

Ammunition: 5.56mm T2.17, Annex T/E Sect E6

Ammunition: Safety T7.1 – 7.3, Annex T/E

Appeals Section 16

Barrel extensions T2.3, T2.10

Binoculars: see ‘Telescopes’

Bipod T2.6

Bisley Shooting T13.1.2, T13.19 – T13.31

Bisley Shooting: single competitors T13.25

Bisley Shooting: squads T13.20

Bisley Shooting: timing T13.25 - T13.27, T19.4.8

Breakdown of target T6.8, T11.4

Bribes Section 17, T19.5.9

Bullet: Specification T2.16.1,

Bullet: Specification 5.56mm T2.17

Butt T2.6

Buttplate T2.6

Cartridge Cases T2.16.2

Cartridge removal tools T7.11

Cartridges – non-brass Annex T/E E3.7

Challenges T12.10, T12.17, T12.21

Chamber specifications .308/7.62 Annex T/E Section E4

Chamber Specifications .223/5.56 Annex T/E Sect E6

Change of Rifle T8.1, T8.3, T8.4, T14.12, T19.4.9

Cheekpiece T2.6

Chief Butts Officer T12.1

Chief Range Officer (CRO) T1.3,

Coaching T6.9, T14.5, T14.18, T19.4.7

Commonwealth Games T18.7

Communication: between Coaches T14.11

Communication: FP to Butts T12.1, T12.11, T12.12, Annex T/A

Competition in Stages T20.1.3

Deputy Chief Range Officer T1.3

Disabled Shooters T2.18, T3.16, T6.1

Disallowance of Score T19.4

Disqualification T19.5

Disturbance T6.11

Doping Section 18

Doping: Exemptions T18.1

Doping: Tests T18.2

Doping: WARNING T18.5 – 18.6

Drugs T1.9

Equipment boxes T3.9

Experts (technical) 1.4

False entry 19.5.6 – 19.5.7

Filters – see ‘sights

Forearm T3.8

Glare Tubes T2.14

Glove T3.2

Groundsheet T3.10

Gauging of shots T12.9

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Handstop T3.6

Hangfire T7.13

Headgear T3.11

Hearing protection T3.15

Late arrivals T13.8, T13.24

Left handed shooters T13.5, T13.19

Lenses – see ‘sights’

Levels (spirit) T2.13

Magazine T2.7

Match Committee T1.3.4, T1.3.5, T15.4, T15.5, T16.1, T19.4, T19.5

Match Director T1.5.5

Match Referee – see ‘Referee’

Media (and Press) T6.10.6

Mirage prevention T3.7

Misfire T7.13

Miss: consecutive misses T13.30

Miss: recording of T10.8, T10.9, T14.9

Miss: marking of T12.4, T12.6,

Movement of target T11.1

Moving forward T6.5, T13.7,

Muzzle Brakes T2.8

Objections T10.10

Out of turn – shooting T11.3

Pencil – use of T10.11

Preparation time T6.5, T13.7, T13.23

Primer T2.16.4

Prone position T6.1

Propellant T2.16.3

Protests Section 15

Range Committee T1.3, T1.3.3,

Range Officer (RO) T1.3.1

Record Scores T5.1

Referee T1.3, T1.3.2, T15.1, T15.2, T15.4

Register Keeper T3.4, T7.10, T9.3, Section 10, Section 13

Repudiation of shot 12.18

Resquadding T8.4

Retirement T6.12

Ricochet T12.7

Rifle: 5.56mm T2.3

Rifle: Barrel T2.3, Annex T/E

Rifle: Chamber T2.4, Annex T/E

Rifle: Specification T2.1

Rifle: Weight T2.2

Safety: Accidental/negligent discharge T7.8, T19.5.1 – T19.5.4

Safety: Ammunition/Technical T1.6, T7.1 – T7.3, T7.12, Annex T/E

Safety: Carriage of rifles T7.4

Safety: Dry-firing T7.7

Safety: Loading T7.5, T7.6

Safety: Responsibilities T1.4, T1.5, T7.5, T10.7, T14.15, T15.3, T19.4.6

Safety: Rifle Inspection T7.10, T10.7

Screening T3.9, T6.3, T14.18, T19.4.10

Security T1.5, T19.5.14

Shooting Jacket T3.1

Shooting mat T3.10

Sighting Shots (inc. conversion thereof) Section 9

Sighting Shots: Recording on scorecards T10.4

Sights: Backsight T2.9

Sights: Filters T2.11.2

Sights: Foresight T2.10, T2.11

Sights: Lenses T2.11.1

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Sights: Offset T2.15

Sights: Optics T2.11

Sights: Telescopic T2.11.

Signalling T12.3, Annex T/C

Single string shooting T13.1.1, T13.2 – T13.18

Single string: check scorers T13.6, T13.16

Single string: Squads T13.2 – T13.4

Single string: timing T13.8 – 13.11, T13.13 – T13.15

Sling T2.2, T3.5

Spectacles T2.11.3

Spotting Disc T12.2, T12.5

Spotting Disc: “disagrees” T10.3, T12.14, T12.15, T19.5.10

Spotting Disc: two displayed T11.3, T12.8, T12.13

Spotting Disc: uncertainties T12.19

Spotting T6.9

Squadding Section 4

Squadding: “seeded” T4.3

Squadding: Teams T14.1.

Stock T2.6

Suspension of firing T6.6

Suspension of firing: Sighters T6.7

Suspension (disciplinary) T19.5, T19.6

Targets Section 5/Annex T/D

Targets: Breakdown T6.8, T11.4

Teams: Shooting Section 14

Teams: Captain T14.4

Teams: Coaching T14.5, T14.11

Teams: Officials T14.5

Teams: Register Keepers T14.15

Teams: Reserves T14.6, T14.13

Teams: Substitutes T14.13

Teams: Time Limits T14.10, T14.17

Telescopes T3.4, T10.2

Theft T19.5.12

Ties Section 20

Ties: Count outs T20.5 – T20.6

Ties: Team Ties Section 21

Ties: Tie Shoots T20.3 – T20.4

Transfer of shooter T6.8

Transfer of shooter: Sighters T6.8

Trigger: Adjusting T8.9

Trigger: Pull T2.5

Trigger: Testing T8.5- T8.13

Trigger: Weight T8.11

Two spotting discs T11.4

Variable Dioptre T2.11.2

Wet Weather clothing T3.3

Wet weather protection T3.7

Wind indicators T3.13

Wind tables T3.13

Windflags T3.12

Wrong target – shot on T11.2

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